Monday, June 29, 2009

Freedom Isn't Free


Franklin and Lois Bowers, young couple on left

Franklin Bowers fought in World War II, as it was his duty. He died on the beach of Normandy, France, 9 July 1944, just 13 days before his 22 birthday and less thank 5 months after marrying his high-school sweetheart, my great-aunt Lois. According to Lois's mother Vera, Franklin saw the person who shot him and did not shoot back, as he would have been unable to hurt, let alone kill, someone. He was a kind and decent young man.

While I always knew I had an uncle who fought and died in WWII, it was only recently I learnt he died in the battle of Normandy. This battle plays such an important part in history classes throughout school, yet I never even knew it lasted for 24 days, as D-Day was always the topic of discussion. I was never able to understand how some many thousands of young men were able to jump into the water and run onto the beach, all the while knowing that they would probably not make it home.

I dedicate this entry in the Carnival of Genealogy to my great-uncle who died while fighting for freedom and independence.

Photo courtesy of my aunt Barbara.
Posted by Amanda E. Perrine at 5:41 PM
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4 comments:

  1. TerriJune 30, 2009 at 5:55 AM

    What an amazing photo & story!! I don't think I ever knew all the details either!! Again, THANK YOU!!! XOXO

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  2. GeneaDivaJuly 5, 2009 at 7:29 PM

    Thanks for posting about your uncle. I enjoy learning about all our WWII heroes.
    I have a special interest in Normandy as my dad landed on Omaha Yellow 2nd Wave on 6th June 1944. Ironically it was also his 21st birthday. He participated in 7 of the 8 major European battles and Normandy was the only one he would ever talk about and I think, only b/c it was his 21st birthday.

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  3. AnonymousJuly 6, 2009 at 9:53 AM

    I identify with you. My great-uncle died in 1918 in WWI in France shortly before the armistice. He is buried there. He was just 24. His mother saved 60 letters he wrote home in three small boxes in the back of her closet where they were found in 2001.

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  4. Amanda E. PerrineJuly 7, 2009 at 7:53 PM

    Thank you Terri, just learnt it all recently, definitely something we need to share in the family!

    GeneaDiva-That's amazing that your father participated in all those battles. A true war hero!

    Jean-What a treasure you have in those letters. It is so sad he died and was buried so far from home. He is a hero.

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